What is perioral dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that shows up as tiny red bumps, small blisters and flaking around the mouth, nose or eyes. A telltale sign is a band of clear, healthy skin right next to the lips. It most often affects women aged 20-45 and, while it isn't dangerous, without proper treatment it can persist for months and keep coming back.
Common signs
Common causes and factors
Perioral dermatitis often flares up because of what we put on our skin. Pinpointing the exact cause is the most important step, which is why we always start treatment with a proper assessment rather than guesswork.
Steroid creams
Topical steroid creams are the most common cause; they help temporarily but make the condition worse once you stop using them.
Cosmetics and skincare
Thick, greasy creams, foundations and occlusive products clog the skin and fuel inflammation.
Toothpaste and fluoride
Toothpastes containing fluoride or SLS can irritate the sensitive skin around the mouth.
Hormonal and environmental changes
Fluctuations in the menstrual cycle, stress, sun and wind can all trigger flare-ups.
How we treat perioral dermatitis
A personalised plan for every patient, based on your photos and symptoms. First we help you safely stop whatever is feeding the rash, and only then do we choose the treatment.
Treatment begins with "zero therapy" - safely stopping the products that irritate the skin. This is the most important step in letting the skin calm down.
How treatment works
We help you safely stop steroid creams and irritating cosmetics that keep the rash going.
We prescribe topical treatments to reduce inflammation in the skin.
For moderate to severe cases, a short course of prescription oral treatment.
We recommend a suitable cleanser, moisturiser and sun protection so your skin can recover.
We track your progress and adjust the treatment if needed until your skin has fully calmed.
iThe iDerma advantage
Experienced facial skin specialists
Our team is made up of doctors who treat inflammatory facial skin conditions every day.
A fast assessment
You receive a reply and a treatment plan within 24 hours, with no long waits to see a specialist.
A prescription if needed
If needed, the dermatologist issues a prescription treatment directly and remotely.
Confidential and secure
Your photos and personal data are handled securely and confidentially.
Money-back guarantee
If we are unable to provide the consultation remotely, we refund you 100%.
Everything from home
You fill in a form, attach your photos and get treated without leaving home.
Doctors, treating perioral dermatitis
"Professionalism, clear communication and attention to every detail - exactly what we expect from every consultation."
About usService pricing
Initial dermatologist consultation
49,00 €Follow-up consultation
A later visit for the same conditionAny follow-up questions straight after your consultation are free. A repeat consultation is only needed when your condition is being reassessed.
With a 100% money-back guarantee if we are unable to provide the consultation remotely.
Frequently asked questions
1. Does perioral dermatitis go away on its own?
Usually not. Without treatment it can persist for weeks or months and keep recurring. The right treatment speeds up recovery and lowers the risk of relapse.
2. Can perioral dermatitis be treated remotely?
Yes. A dermatologist can assess the condition from good-quality photos and a description of your symptoms, and prescribe treatment.
3. Why shouldn't I use a steroid cream?
Topical steroid creams temporarily reduce redness, but once you stop the condition flares up sharply - they are one of the main causes.
4. How long until my skin improves?
The first improvements are usually visible within 3-6 weeks, while full recovery can take up to a few months.
5. Is perioral dermatitis contagious?
No, it is a non-contagious inflammatory condition.
6. How much does a consultation cost?
An iDerma initial dermatologist consultation is an affordable fixed price, with a lower-priced follow-up, all backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.